Surface irrigation systems are the most popular methods for irrigating crops. Surface irrigation efficiency is generally low in comparison to sprinkler and trickle irrigation. There are many methods for improving the performance of surface irrigation. Gated irrigation pipe is an important tool for improving surface irrigation. Wheat is one of the most important cereal crops grown in the world which plays a key role in the economic activity. Maize is usually used for a human food and livestock feed, as well as it can be used in the production of alcohol and medical materials.
A field study was carried out in northern Egypt on a clay loam soil with 1.2 g cm-3 average soil bulk density during 2014-2015 seasons in Shibin El-Kom area, Egypt. The main aim of this work is to study the application of surface irrigation methods that can be operated in an efficient, effective, sustainable and environmentally sound way. Other goal of the work is to maintain water and fertilizer applications under border and furrow methods for different slopes of field and inlet flow rates. Wheat seeds (Gemeza 11) were planted on November 13th, 2014 and received five irrigations. Corn seeds (Hi-Tech 2031) were planted on May 13th, 2015 and received eight irrigations. The experimental area was irrigated by 6 inch PVC gated pipes. The distance between two consecutive gates was to be 0.70 m.
Based on the obtained results of this study, 0.1% border slope, 5.35 m3 h-1 inlet inflow rate and nitrogen application after offering half wave are recommended for the cultivation of wheat crop. 0.05% furrow slope, 5.35 m3 h-1 inlet inflow rate and nitrogen application after offering half wave are recommended for the cultivation of corn crop.